Veteran Kannada filmmaker Naganna, the son of renowned producer Lakshman, who produced the iconic Bangarada Manushya, is aiming to deliver one of the finest films of his illustrious career spanning over four decades.
Naganna, who directed the blockbuster Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna starring Challenging Star Darshan, is now attempting something unique with Karnata Balam Ajeyam. Through the film, starring newcomer Dhyan Yogeeshwar, he seeks to connect the past with the present in a manner that will appeal even to Gen Z audiences.
Slated for release during the Sankranti festival next year, Karnata Balam Ajeyam will make selective use of modern technology. Clarifying the role of Artificial Intelligence in the production, Naganna said the film would not rely entirely on AI. “We are not making the film using AI. We are only using the technology wherever necessary for minor corrections and enhancements. The film is fundamentally driven by storytelling and human creativity,” he explained.
Speaking about the ongoing schedule, Naganna said: “Mohan Master has choreographed this song brilliantly, and Dhyan is putting in tremendous effort with his performance. The lyrics are written by Trilok Trivikram. We have an experienced team working on this project. After completing two more days of shooting here, we will continue filming in Channapatna, Bagalkot, Belagavi, Hubballi, and several other locations.
“The hero’s character is named Vatapi. More than 1,000 technicians, dancers, and artistes are involved in this song sequence. We are making a sincere attempt to narrate a story that reflects Karnataka’s rich culture and heritage. The narrative moves between the present day and the sixth-century Chalukya era, blending historical and contemporary social themes.”
Later in the evening, at the Badami Heritage venue, Naganna invited the media to listen to the film’s grand title song. Delighted by the overwhelming response, he remarked that such a large media gathering reminded him of the golden days of Kannada cinema.
“Seeing so many media persons here brings back memories of the old days when journalists would turn up in large numbers for film shoots,” he said with a smile.
Praising the dedication of his team, Naganna added humorously: “If our cinematographer works at a speed of 120 kmph, our hero performs at 240 kmph,” he said, applauding both cinematographer Shekar Chandru and lead actor Dhyan Yogeeshwar for their commitment to the film.
Naganna also revealed that the film draws inspiration from research and discoveries related to the Pulakeshi era by scholar Mahadale, incorporating those historical insights into what he describes as a social-historical drama. According to the director, Karnata Balam Ajeyam blends authentic history with contemporary social issues to create a meaningful cinematic experience.
